The 21st century rail passenger continues to wage an interminable battle against maddening delays, over-crowding and expense.

Lines and services across Wales have been cut, often to the dismay of commuters and rural communities.

And we all remember "leaves on the line" and this summer's line that the weather's too hot.

But today our struggle to make sense of this second-class service takes another baffling blow. A computer aimed at making our life on the rails easier is fobbing us off with excuses because it cannot deal with the simple questions we ask.

It is unbelievable in this day and age of hi-tech and emphasis on customer service that a reasonable request through a nationwide internet site cannot be fulfilled.

It is unforgivable when the Labour Government promised travellers a door-to-door information system covering all public transport options as soon as it came to power - that's more than six years ago.

Rail operators need a slick information system in place to ensure income continues to combat escalating track maintenance costs.

Any excuse that Welsh place names or Welsh routes are too complicated cannot be accepted.

We are paying customers. We want to travel by train - a fact proved by growing passenger numbers.

So we have every right to expect a decent service. Otherwise people will remain in traffic jams, flying in the face of Government targets to get more people to use rail.

The Government must act now to halt the confusion and insist on a coherent, comprehensive service. The Government must deliver now.

WELSH nurse Kerry Griffiths is a heroine. She ignored dangers threatening her own life to protect that of another.

The 34-year-old from Swansea is due to return home today. She deserves a heroine's welcome.

And her unselfish act and unending bravery deserve unreserved praise and recognition.